Review of Data and Discussion - Who Should Undergo Patent Foramen Ovale Closure in 2014?

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Neurology
• Interventional Cardiology

Background:

• Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a common cardiac finding.
• PFO is linked to cryptogenic stroke, decompression illness, platypnoea-orthodeoxia syndrome, and migraine.
• Percutaneous PFO closure is frequently performed, primarily for secondary stroke prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review evidence for PFO closure in various conditions.
• To focus on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for cryptogenic stroke.
• To guide clinical decisions on PFO closure candidacy.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing literature.
• Emphasis on randomized controlled trials.
• Analysis of evidence for PFO closure in specific indications.

Main Results:

• The most robust evidence for PFO closure exists for cryptogenic stroke.
• Ongoing debate regarding the superiority of PFO closure over medical management for stroke.
• Evidence for other indications like decompression illness and platypnoea-orthodeoxia syndrome is less extensive.

Conclusions:

• PFO closure is a viable option for specific patient groups, particularly those with cryptogenic stroke.
• Further research and careful patient selection are crucial.
• The decision for PFO closure should be individualized based on available evidence and patient factors.